JAYU To Expand Intermediate & Advanced Arts Programming
Toronto, ON | August 11, 2025 — On July 30, MPP Chris Glover stopped by as the JAYU community gathered for its Annual Summer Slam to formally congratulate the organization on receiving a $356, 300 Grow grant from the provincial government’s Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF). As a result of the grant, awarded earlier this year, JAYU is expanding its signature iAM Level 2 programming, an advanced stream designed to engage iAM alumni and other young artists in more specialized and technical training. Over the next three years, the program will serve 150 youth through disciplines with higher barriers to entry, like music production, photo editing, and digital media, equipping them with the tools to further their artistic careers.
“Congratulations to JAYU Festival for receiving a $356,300 Grow grant. This investment will greatly enhance JAYU’s ability to provide transformative arts programming that fosters creativity and opens new opportunities for young people in our community.” said MPP Chris Glover (Spadina – Fort York)
The iAM Program offers multi-week arts workshops that connect equity-deserving youth in Toronto to professional mentorship, paid opportunities, and a supportive creative community. Led by a team of Artist Mentors, many of whom are alumni, participants explore disciplines such as poetry, painting, and photography while building skills rooted in both artistry and social justice. Funds from the grant will be used to help with staffing costs, as well as hosting workshops and helping with costs for facilitators. The grant’s also helping with purchasing software and helping with administrative costs as well.
“We’re incredibly excited to expand our programming,” said Nicole Dane, Manager of Development at JAYU. “This funding allows us to build on the impact of iAM and create space for emerging artists to continue growing, sharing their stories, and building sustainable careers rooted in creativity and community.”
The announcement was made publicly at JAYU’s Annual Summer Slam, a highly anticipated community event where 10 poets competed head-to-head for the grand prize and the title of Summer Slam Champion. From seasoned performers to first-time voices, each poet brought powerful stories and fresh perspectives to the stage, sparking connection and reflection.
“Whether it’s helping people learn new things, connect with their community, or simply have fun, organizations like the JAYU Festival deliver experiences that make a difference,” said Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming. “That’s why grant support through the Ontario Trillium Foundation is so important. This funding will help ensure that it remains at the heart of the community for decades to come.”
About JAYU
JAYU is a Canadian charity that equips equity-deserving youth artists with the tools and space to grow and explore their artistry by offering youth-led arts programs, mentorship, human rights education, and paid opportunities in the GTA to foster economic resilience, empathy, and community building. Guided by a dedicated team of staff, artists, educators, and a Board of Directors, JAYU’s year-round iAM Program encompasses iAM Core, Action, Employment, and Mental Health streams, along with showcase platforms like the annual JAYU Festival of the Arts.
About The Ontario Trillium Foundation
The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) is an agency of the Ontario government with a mission to build healthy and vibrant communities across the province. Last year, OTF invested nearly $105M into 732 community projects and multi-sector partnerships. Projects aim to enhance economic well-being, foster more active lifestyles, support child and youth development, provide spaces for people to come together and connect, and create a more sustainable environment. Visit otf.ca to learn more.
For Media Inquiries, Please Contact:
Sursattie Raghunandan
Marketing & Communications Manager, JAYU
sursattie@jayu.ca | www.jayu.ca | @jayucanada